Kochi: A national survey organised by Helpage India has indicated a very disturbing sharp increase in the rate of abuse on elderly people in the country. As per the survey report, the abuse on elders has increased from 23 per cent in 2013 to 50 per cent this year. The research report, covering 12 cities, both metro and non-metro, across eight states with a sample size of 1,200 elders, indicated that women are more vulnerable with 52 per cent of abuse as against 48 per cent in the case of men.
Among the metro cities surveyed, Bangalore reported the highest rate of abuse while Delhi recorded the lowest. Though no city from Kerala was included this year, Thiruvananthapuram was included in the research in 2013 and Kochi, in 2012.
“Due to its peculiar social system and the rate of youngsters migrating to foreign shores or other states, the rate of abuse on the aged is definitely higher in Kerala when compared to other states. The aged in the state are facing loneliness, economic dependence, disrespect, neglect and lack of support. After retirement their quality of life is compromised when the monthly income becomes minimal. Our helpline gets hundreds of calls from the aged,” said Biju Mathew, state coordinator, HelpAge India.
When compared to the national average of 9 per cent of aged population, Kerala has an elderly population of 13 per cent which also contributes to the increase in the rate of abuse. As per the national survey, daughters-in-law (61 per cent) and sons (59 per cent) are the topmost perpetrators of violence in the family, which is not different in the state also.
Unfortunately, only 14 per cent of the victims are unaware of the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act 2007 though 67 per cent of them know facilities like police helpline. “Helpage India is conducting awareness programmes for youngsters and has also launched a programme called HUG (Help Unite Generations) under which college students are being appointed as volunteers for elderly care. We have been promoting the concept of elderly self help groups (ESHGs),” he added.
